Government halts diesel levy for October and November
Petrol companies will not add GH¢1 per liter on diesel in October and November. The levy is frozen to ease transport costs.
The Finance Ministry announced the immediate suspension of the GH¢1 Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy on diesel for two months. The directive will stay in force through October and November.
The levy had been added to the price of diesel by major distributors such as Shell, Goil, and TotalEnergies. It was intended to support the Ghana National Gas Company and the Power Distribution Company but resulted in higher fuel bills for commuters and freight operators.
Prof. Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology’s energy analyst Dr. Ama Mensah told 3News the move will cut living costs for drivers and small business owners. He said the relief will be felt especially by those who rely on diesel for daily transport.
The exemption includes both private and bulk hauliers. The Ghana Protected Petroleum Corporation will still receive the fuel supply it needs while the levy is paused.
The Ministry of Finance says the decision will be reviewed before the end of the year. If inflation stays low the levy may stay off for longer.
The road transport sector expects lower fares on intercity and commercial routes. Traders say the cost drop will help them restock shops with imported goods.
The government will release a detailed notice to all oil marketing firms today.
